Minnie Fortuin celebrated her 100th birthday with a prayer service on Sunday October 20. Ma Fortuin has been living in Hanover Park for 50 years. She had seven children, of whom three are alive, 13 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren, and 12 great-great-grandchildren. Her daughter, Magdalene Fortuin, 61, who cares for her mother, said she has no chronic illnesses and although she cannot walk like she used to, Ma Fortuin refuses to use a wheelchair. “The whole community knows my mother. She used to walk from Hanover Park to Mitchell’s Plain, and walked long distances up until the age of 90. Her memory is still good, but she does get confused now and then. Her hearing is also a challenge now. I am grateful to God for giving me the strength and grace to care for our mother,” Ms Fortuin said. Desmond Fortuin, 73, described their mother as a blessing. Ma Fortuin said: “I am very grateful to God for sparing me. I want to thank God with my whole heart.”